Harrison (Harry) Johnson (January 10, 2010 – September 1, 2016)

by pat

Joe and I are in shock. Harry crossed Rainbow Bridge today. Three weeks ago he had his annual check up and everything was fine. Yesterday he swam in the pool, went for our evening walk, ran about the yard with Keagan, and was completely fine.

He slept with us last night; ate breakfast; I gave him a piece of beef jerky and a few pieces of cat food as I do every morning as I leave to go to Jazzercise and run errands. Today when I came home he didn’t greet me at the door. I called him and told my other five to “find Harry” thinking he might have shut himself in a closet as Keagan has done in the past. I looked and found him laying in the laundry room in front of the dog door as if he were asleep. I immediately realized he had crossed the bridge.

Our “Hair Bear” was only 6.5 years old.

I’ve loved him since he was three days old. In this picture, he’s “white boy” (bottom left). He was our benevolent pack leader who greeted many a foster pup.

Not much for retrieving, although he would fetch a ball, he preferred to watch the reflections from the sun dance across the pool. His greatest joy was to check to see if a toad or frog had decided to take a swim.

He loved to eat and if you were not careful he would snag your sandwich as you were lifting it to your mouth when we ate outside. He would “talk” to tell you to hurry up and make dinner. He pulled on his leash even on his walk last night. “Pet me” was his mantra. We always thought he liked to be petted so much because of his allergies which he saw a doggy dermatologist to treat, but we realize, he just liked to be loved on.

We are so glad he did not suffer from cancer or another horrible disease and was happy and healthy right up until he was not. He was an easy boy who was so loved by us. We will miss you Harry.

I feel so sad for you! You are wise to have realized so soon that it was better for Harry to go that way even though you never said goodbye. I lost a dog in the same manner 10 years ago that way and was lost in my own grief for months before I realized what a gift it had been for her. God bless you

I’m in shock as well. I lost a golden suddenly before we got Max. I thin Harry was a puppy when we adopted Max so I watched him grow up through your posts. I loved him from afar as a goofy big make golden who was so lovable. My heart breaks for you and Joe. RIP sweet Harry

Harry is now in heaven watching reflections that we cannot see. How blessed he was to be with you and your family. May time soften your sadness and give you strength. Hurry Harry, there may be a squirrel to chase. Hugs.

Pat and Joe, We are so surprised by this sad news.
He was such a wonderful dog, and I enjoyed sharing whatever he wanted off my plate! He was so young, not even a year older than our Bailey. We hold you and Joe in our hearts and prayers. We are so very sorry. He was such a wonderful and gentle boy.

Pat & Joe, I am just shocked and so deeply saddened by the passing of your beautiful Harry. I can only hope you will find comfort in the memories you have of the brief but precious time that he was a part of your lives. ” R.I.P. Harry… run free at the bridge! I’m sure you won’t forget to take a moment now and then to look for those who loved you most and best for you know that they will meet you there when the time is right. I can only pray for peace and comfort for the humans you leave behind – they are of course – missing you dreadfully…”

So sorry to hear about Harry! Im in shock (and tears)
My heart is breaking!
Harry was a unique guy … he told me more than a few times that he was a furry human! [Like the time when Pat got up from the table and Harry immediately sat in her chair next to Joe at the dinner table] I am sad… and sad for Pat and Joe.
Harry was like a gentle giant and will not only leave an big empty spot on the Johnson bed but huge holes in the hearts of those that loved him. Run free Harry and ‘sniff’ Diego for Auntie Deb

OMG, I am in shock Pat, you and Joe were his world as he was yours. I remember all the pictures of him as you were waiting to take him home. Please accept my deepest sympathies. I hope you guys k does you did everything for Harry and all your Goldens. RIP HARRY !!!